Retail sales grow 16% in toy industry in 2020

The NPD Group announced U.S. retail sales of toys generated $25.1 billion in 2020, an increase of 16% or $3.5 billion. Unit sales for the year were flat while the average selling price increased by... more »

IMC presents webinar series highlighting diversity and inclusion

International Market Centers (IMC) announced that it will present a series of four hour-long webinars highlighting diversity and inclusion issues impacting retail. The series, which debuts on Feb. 1, is presented in partnership with Diversify... more »

NRF 2021: Retail’s Big Show – Chapter 2 pivots to virtual format

The National Retail Federation (NRF) issued the following statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay regarding changes to the planned in-person NRF 2021: Retail’s Big Show – Chapter 2. “We have recently learned that the... more »

MHS Licensing introduces artist Courtney Morgenstern

MHS Licensing & Consulting introduced new artist Courtney Morgenstern at its MHS Art Showcase earlier this month. “We are thrilled to start the promising new year with the introduction of a wonderfully talented artist,” said Marty Segelbaum,... more »

IMC’s Atlanta Market experiences robust buying

On Jan. 19, 2021, IMC held a Zoom conference that detailed the robust buying experience exhibitors had at Atlanta Market. According to Bob Maricich, Atlanta Market was a “giant step forward!” ... more »

Messe Frankfurt postpones shows until 2022

Back in September 2020, a decision was reached by Messe Frankfurt and the industries involved to forgo any physical events at its home base in the first quarter of 2021. Now, following close consultation with... more »

Adam Glassman serves as Gift for Life 2021 honorary chair

Gift for Life, the gift and home industries and sole charitable organization, announced that Adam Glassman, creative director of O, The Oprah Magazine, will serve as its honorary chair and spokesperson through 2021. “I am... more »

Turner Licensing partners with illustrator Jason Naylor

Turner Licensing is excited and proud to announce a partnership with widely popular street and graffiti artist Jason Naylor with the release of new 2022 dated products featuring his work. Naylor is an award-winning artist,... more »

PPP reopens Jan. 11, 2021

The U.S. Small Business Administration (USBA), in consultation with the Treasury Department, announced that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will re-open the week of Jan. 11, 2021 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers.... more »

NRF report suggests 2020 retail imports may break record

Imports seen during 2020 appear to be headed toward a new record despite the coronavirus pandemic, and remain at high levels as 2021 begins, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the... more »